Friday, 14 April 2017

Anderson .Paak - Malibu, album review

Broadly Speaking

Appearing on the first in the new series of Later…..with Jools Holland – and perhaps
having an extended showing in tonight’s lengthier show – I was impressed enough
to listen to his latest Malibu. What
struck immediately in his live performance was the sweetness of his
soul/R&B vocal, and this is sustained across the 16 tracks on the album,
too many really, that bridge jazz and blues and hip hop. Opener The Bird is the jewel in the crown, a
jazz infused reflection of the hardships in his growing up and his positive
outlook on the experience.

Fuller hip hop offerings like The Waters, featuring BJ the Chicago Kid, appeal less to my ears –
but will clearly please so many others – yet I do like the echo of Marvin Gaye
that drifts across at the start, and the jazz roots within, again, remind a
little of Mos Def. A song like The Season
– I Care engages because of the complexities in the production: the scratch,
as requisite, and then the expansive vocal harmonisings/over-dubs, though when
it moves to its second part of more conventional rap and recorded inserts it is
less panoramic.

Put Me Thru echoes
of Curtis Mayfield and then a boarder soul-vocal sound, and I am back in my
comfort zone. So in essence this fine performer and album have a broad appeal,
and I wouldn’t be the target audience but recognise its class and appreciate so
much of its quality music.

About Me

This blog is essentially for music reviews, including live gigs. Frequently heavy on 60s/70s nostalgia, the time of my musical growing-up, there is also an eclectic and contemporary range. In addition I fuel a commitment to posting themed album covers for the simple challenge and fun of it - as I've started, I'll keep going. Enjoy.